DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Israeli military forces conducted a significant operation in southern Syria, targeting several individuals identified as members of Hamas. This operation took place on Thursday in the village of Beit Jin, located near the Lebanese border. Reports indicate that approximately 100 Israeli troops were involved in the raid, which included utilizing loudspeakers to call out the names of those they intended to detain.
According to Syria TV, a local news outlet, the operation led to the arrest of several individuals, one of whom was reportedly shot and killed by the Israeli forces during the encounter. The Israeli military has asserted that the detainees were Hamas operatives believed to be plotting attacks against Israel. The military reported that the suspects were subsequently taken to Israel for questioning, and arms were also discovered in the vicinity.
The identities of the detained individuals have not been disclosed, and the claims regarding their association with Hamas remain unverified by independent sources. There has been no immediate response from either Hamas or Syrian officials concerning the operation.
This operation occurs in a context of escalating tensions and military activity following the fall of President Bashar Assad's government in early December. Since then, Israeli forces have expanded their operations, moving into various regions of southern Syria and conducting hundreds of airstrikes throughout the nation. These actions have significantly diminished the military capabilities of the Syrian army.
In a related development, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, during a visit to France last month, acknowledged that Syria is engaged in indirect negotiations with Israel aimed at averting a further escalation of hostilities. This indicates attempts at diplomatic engagement amidst ongoing military confrontations.
As the situation evolves, the implications of such military operations and diplomatic efforts remain a critical area of monitoring for both regional stability and international relations in the context of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
